Ace Attorney

[SlowPokemon]

Reminder that the demo for Spirit of Justice is out today!

[Onionleaf]

OMG did you like episode 5?

It was sooo confusing. @@ To be honest I was stumped in some places - I think it's because there was a lot more evidence to work with than in previous cases. The murderer was one tough nut to crack, that's for sure.
All in all, I'd have to say I enjoyed Episode 4 the most, I guess it was just more intriguing and the ending result was explained quite well. Whereas in Episode 5, there was like, what, three different "murder" scenes to untangle? Yikes!

[SlowPokemon]

Yeahhh well it wasn't in the GBA release, so Capcom felt that they needed to give gamers a reason to buy a remake (it literally doubles the length of the game). It definitely feels almost like three different cases in one.

[Hero of Trains]

It was definitely long, but I really liked it, mostly because of the characters. Ema is one of my favorite characters of all time, mostly because I'm literally her. Even our ages match up, real year to in-universe year. And

Spoiler

Gant is my favorite villain in the whole series because he's manipulative, but not in a completely insane way like a certain girl in the third game.

[close]

Also, the blue badger is, well, something, and I love it and hate it at the same time.

[SlowPokemon]

What the hell is that wriggling piece of plywood?!

[SlowPokemon]

Out today on the Nintendo 3DS eShop are Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - Spirit of Justice (with the DLC costumes being free if you get the game during the first week of release) and four home menu themes based on the game--pixel art themes for Phoenix Wright, Apollo Justice, and Athena Cykes, as well as one featuring the main characters of the game.

[Oronoco]

I've been slowly and steadily playing through Ace Attorney for the first time, too. And I just got to this part

What the hell is that wriggling piece of plywood?!

and it made it so much better because I recognized that line. So um, thanks, Slow. It made me really happy for some reason.

[mastersuperfan]

My thoughts on SoJ so far (just beat Case 2, and spoilers obviously):

Case 1:

Spoiler

I thought this was a very impressive first case, with its fair share of twists and turns. Some parts felt a little too obvious, even for the first case (such as the fact that the killer used the breaker to cause the blackout), and I didn't like how the killer kept interrupting the music, but regardless, I think this might be my second-favorite first case in the series (behind 4-1, of course).

Also, Phoenix is a badass for being willing enough to defend Alhbi with his own life on the line, and with those constant "chop chop" threats.

[close]

Case 2:

Spoiler

An AA case with only one investigation section followed by only one trial section? That's a first.

This case was extremely promising at the start, and while it didn't turn out badly in the end, there were a few parts that annoyed me a bit, namely the twins reveal, and the sudden revelation that Apollo has revealing that Retinz is actually Mr. Reus (I dislike sudden revelations in general, though this one wasn't nearly as bad as Phoenix's in 1-4). A lot of the details were left out, making the trial feel a little bare (especially Retinz's actions after the murder itself happened, since it was mostly summarized generally without any proof or evidence to show that he specifically tampered with the scene).

Also, the new Revisualization sequence looks AWESOME. Plus, it was used really well in this case, too.

This game is living proof that the AA breakdowns have only gotten crazier over time.

Overall, this is my second-favorite 2nd case in the series, behind 4-2 and slightly ahead of 2-2 and 3-2.

Finally, is it just me or are they still trying to ship Apollo and Trucy, even though they're related? If you present Trucy's diary again after giving it back to her, Apollo shows quite a bit of interest when Trucy brings up that she may have some "love troubles"...

[close]

[SlowPokemon]

I'm also done with the first two cases.

Damn, it's crazy that the second case only has two (SUPER LONG) segments. It took me about 4 hours for the investigation and about 6 hours for the trial--this was also with copious examination and presenting, and checking the log a lot to make sure I hadn't missed anything. I've decided I'm going to start taking notes throughout the game, so here are my notes for the trial of Episode 2:

The Magical Turnabout Day 1 Trial

The Magical Turnabout Day 1 Trial
This new defendant lobby music is stressful as hell I feel like someone's about to die and we're not even in Khura'in

THE NEW COURT MUSIC IS EVEN MORE DRAMATIC IT'S LIKE CHILL BUT SOMEONE'S ABOUT TO DIE

The Judge's eyes look so bulbous when he does his surprise face

I, too, write the case details on a scroll

As if "Mr. Reus" wasn't blatant enough, his official name is Manov Mistree. I can't help but be reminded of how Zak Gramarye was originally known as "Shadi Smith" when he was trying to hide his identity.

I'm a fan of the perpetually flowing sash Nahyuta wears, it's a neat animation

Nahyuta is one pretty, pretty man

"I guess Ema couldn't convince him after all" I'm very curious as to how exactly that conversation went down??? "Yeah, uh, the girl you're prosecuting is super nice. Don't prosecute her pls"

I'M ABSOLUTELY FLOORED I was so cool with Nahyuta until he started fucking ripping into Apollo immediately

"Satorha" with the Khura'inese text is pretty cool, the developers put way too much effort into making this a real language

Judge: "I-I see... So basically, you're asking the defense to "get real"? – look who can speak in a modern dialect, finally

"...then I shall cast you down into the pit of hell, along with Trucy Wright!" OH FUCK THIS GUY

APOLLO TO THE RESCUE "IS THAT ANY WAY TO SPEAK IN COURT"

I love Apollo his reactions are so real

EMA IS BACK ON THE SNACKOOS poor Apollo this is bad news

Ema stress eats this is so relatable

EMA FUCKING GOES FOR IT ON THE STAND HOLY SHIT

"She and Prosecutor Sahdmadhi don't seem to get along very well, do they?" when has Ema ever gotten along with a prosecutor she was assigned tbh

I'm laughing the American court reacts to this hostility toward lawyers the same way we did in the first case nice

Sahdmadhi's evidence that Mr. Reus was going to reveal all of Troupe Gramarye's secrets on stage during the show? "Bonny de Famme testified that just before the start of the show, Mr. Reus said... 'I'm going to reveal all of Troupe Gramarye's secrets on stage today!'"

Athena's reaction to the above: "Hmm... Well, that isn't exactly a great starting point for a rebuttal, is it...?"

I swear to god I die every time someone from Khura'in casually threatens to send a defense attorney to hell

Nahyuta is extremely well animated wow

WHEN IS THE LAST TIME WE DEALT WITH A PROSECUTOR THIS RUDE

Did the judge really start to call Apollo Mr. Stink Bug

AWW THE HEALTH BAR IS MADE UP OF ATTORNEY'S BADGES IN AMERICA

NAHYUTA IS PULLING THE SALARY EVALUATION CARD HOLY SHIT

Apollo is the snarkiest little guy I love him

I cannot believe they greenlit the line "(Get a little too addicted to using your precious white powder, did you, Ema?)"

"This 'Holy Mother' is no scientific concept I've ever heard of." SAME EMA SAME

Apollo: "Y-You WHAAAT?! (He actually had proof?!)" – same

Apollo, after I present something incorrectly: "Objection! (Well, I presented that evidence with plenty of confidence...but that confidence is waning by the second...)"
Judge: "Well, how about it, Mr. Justice? Do you have an inconsistency to show the court or not?"
Apollo: "...Um, I was just doing some vocal training, so feel free to continue."
Judge: "And overlook the damage done to our hearing, Mr. Justice? I think not!" *penalty*

From another incorrect objection (this testimony is hard):
Apollo: "...Huh. That's funny. I thought I saw an inconsistency a second ago... It disappeared – like magic! The murder occurred during a magic show, so crazy things like this are bound to happen." thanks Apollo

THIS IS DUMB BOTH OF MY PREVIOUS OBJECTIONS WERE TRYING TO PROVE THAT TRUCY COULDN'T HAVE LEFT FINGERPRINTS WITH HER GLOVES ON

Why didn't presenting the footage of the show work she clearly has gloves on in the video

THEY REMIXED HIS OBJECTION

".............But, on a personal level, I'm very happy about that!" I love Ema I should never have doubted her

When Apollo says "Stag beetles are cool, with those huge mandibles of theirs!" Athena's face says it all

The line "I've been demoted to a vegetable?!" slayed me

"How did the victim's body wind up inside the coffin?" If I hadn't already lost two of my five strikes I would absolutely be answering "it was magic" because I truly believe this would probably the best scene in the game if I did

I absolutely love the arrangement of the Kurain theme from the original trilogy that they've been using in this game

HE FUCKING ATTACKS APOLLO WITH A ROSARY IM GONNA SCREAM

Athena finally intervenes it's about time

"Your Honor, please send for this little child's guardian to come take her home" OH MY GOD WHAT A DICK

I don't really like Bonny all that much but I did have to laugh at her pun "lagomorph-ing illusionist"

I laughed at "(Sure, you're a real fan, all right... Of destroying Trucy, you mean.)"

Bonny: "What else could I think?!" Apollo "(I know of at least three other unflattering things you REALLY think about Trucy...)" this made me laugh because the question was so obviously rhetorical

"Feel free to slowly mull it over while you roast over the flames of hell, you evil red pepper!" why is the writing for this game so perfect

Nahyuta literally pulls out a scroll and tells Apollo which particular hell he will be sent to. I really like this scene for some reason

The Judge thinks PTSD is called "Postal Stress Disorder" and that "it's where a person becomes uncontrollably angry."

After Bonny loses it for a moment, the camera cuts to the Judge, who just stares in bewilderment at her for a moment before shaking his head and telling Athena to "help this unfortunate young lady" without addressing Bonny's statement at all.

Nahyuta thinks the Mood Matrix sounds like "spurious devilry." Judging by how sparingly it was used in Dual Destinies, the developers agree.

Bonny calling Athena a "know-nothing know-it-all" definitely gave me an insult I'll use in the future

I appreciate that the character models are now detailed enough to allow for gratuitous close-ups that still look graphically nice

BONNY'S TRANSFORMATION IS SO GOOD I LOVE THE AESTHETIC

I'm suddenly interested in this character

The music that's playing is the same track they used for Roger Retinz in the investigation and I'm a big fan of this track??? It's quirky and catchy and it makes me laugh—maybe it's a generic "creepy person" music

I love that the gallery murmurs in shock over this witness pronouncing gleefully that she's a bat

Apollo's over-the-top dramatic shocked reaction to being called "lobster boy" makes me think he has an aversion to lobsters

Apollo referring to Bonny as "Batsy McBatty" gives me life

Apollo no don't accuse Bonny of murder the person you accuse on the first day of trial is never the true culprit

Okay he did it with the phrase "You are one artful liar, Ms. de Famme, and one spectacular suspect!" which contains really nice alliteration and is just a very good wording overall so I can forgive it

Speaking of nice wording, Nahyuta follows that up with "My apologies for raining on the defense's merry revelry..." which is a nice turn of phrase

I'm calling it Bonny's teleportation trick is how she was under the stage

Judge: ".........Hmm... I've heard some illogical things come out of you before, but this is absurd."

Judge: "My gut tells me you're bluffing, but I'll bite." JUDGE IS SLAYING TODAY

RIP I misunderstood the answer and accidentally had Apollo claim that the witness teleported beneath the stage
Judge's response: "............Well, I have listened patiently to your reasoning...and the only thing dispelled is the false air of competency you tried to project." HE NEEDS TO TAKE A PILL

Judge: "Ho ho ho. You might be surprised to hear this, but...I used to be known as the 'Jokester Judge'!" I just lost it

How are there five bullet points in a row that are Judge lines?
Judge: "Oh! Maybe YOU are the fake, and your attorney's badge is made out of cardboard!"
Apollo: "No, no! I'm the real thing, I swear! ...And why cardboard, specifically...?
Judge: "Let's just say I had an infuriating experience thanks to one..."

Nahyuta Sick Burn Corner: "I suspected you had a few screws loose, but now I see some are missing altogether." NICE

The audience bursting into applause after the teleportation trick is funny enough, but the Judge proclaiming that "The witness has suddenly split into two people!" only makes it better

The animation of the twins fighting on the stand followed by Apollo telling them to leave the sibling rivalry for later is pretty amusing

The clacking sound of the rosary when Nahyuta slams the table is really satisfying to hear for some reason

The simultaneous shocked animation where their parasols fly back after Nahyuta announces his plan to send them to "interrogation hell" is priceless

I'm really loving the twin dynamic, this is pretty amusing

Athena: "By the time people realized it wasn't a part of the act, it might be too late, huh."
Apollo: "(If by 'people,' you mean 'Athena Cykes,' then yes.)"

Betty excitedly imagining setting the Judge's beard on fire is slaying me

Judge: "Ho ho ho. I plan to be sitting up here at least another ten years."
Athena: "Ten more years? I don't know about that..."
Apollo: "What did we discuss about inner monologues, Athena?!"

In this moment of time I feel so bad that Bonny is so supportive of Betty but Betty is so awful to her why am I so invested in this

I'm down to one attorney's badge why is this so stressful

I lost all my badges so I need to go back to the title screen and restart?? Good thing I just saved when I got down to one

What the hell am I supposed to present how is it not the fire bucket

I'm going to wring somebody's neck I presented the fire bucket I just did it on the wrong statement two separate times and IT MADE SENSE FOR THE OTHER STATEMENTS I PRESENTED IT ON

Betty: "Well... hmph! We have even better tricks up our sleeves!"
Bonny: "...Huh? We do?"

Apollo's theme music is so badass it gets me so pumped up

Betty threatens to rip off Apollo's bangs, and he shouts "Objection!" ...just to say that they'll grow back. Was that really worth an objection

Bonny calming her sister down is kind of sweet

Take-2 TV's idea of a prank is making Trucy believe she committed murder. Nobody except Apollo seems to think this is not a great idea for a practical joke.

The bat in Betty's hat is so much cuter than the bunny in Bonny's

Betty: "But for some reason, he really DID turn up dead, so he kinda just stayed on the ground." As dead people do, Betty.

The person in the gallery who says "I knew she was a homicidal little witch from the start!" is now my personal nemesis and I will hurt them

What the fuck is Retinz doing here oh my god I hate this guy

Athena just became my own personal hero by screaming "GO AWAY, YOU CREEP" in all caps

I enjoy the fact that Retinz probably has some mysterious revenge type history with the Gramaryes

Betty is being so harsh to Bonny but I still acknowledge that calling her "harebrain" is funny

Apollo cheering Trucy up by shouting "You'll be FINE" at her is really heartwarming

Trucy introducing herself as "Trucy Wright. Magician" makes me so happy

Apollo: "(What a Grade-A jerk! Well, he's not going to psyche US out!)" this statement proves that even in his inner monologue, Apollo lives in the 90s

All of these hecklers make me so sad and I feel like the game is trying to make a commentary on the mass media

Trucy performing her testimony is so satisfying

This gallery is so easily swayed I can't stop laughing

I still only have one attorney's badge left rip I'm going to need to save before I do everything

Pressing this testimony is a riot everyone is just like "shut up and enjoy the show Apollo"

Trucy's line "Now, boys and girls, watch carefully, and please don't kick the seat in front of you!" is so cute I love it

Athena objects to Apollo pointing out the contradiction holy shit no

The only new characters are involved with this case are Retinz, Bonny and Betty, the victim, and the prosecutor. They're getting a lot of mileage out of just a few new characters.

Bonny looking up to Trucy and being inspired by her is something I can get behind

Bonny finding the fact that the cameraman filmed her the whole time creepy is also something I can get behind

Oh my god I cannot describe how uncomfortable it makes me that the cameraman started at her feet and slowly panned up to her face

I'm finding it amusing that the random guy in the TV station who told you about this ended up being relevant to the case

Apollo voiced my thought that it was weird how Athena knew how to operate the video analysis, and Athena immediately admits that she just fucking made it up

On the other hand, I enjoy the dramatic close-up of Retinz's shoes that pans up to his face. Maybe it's because I feel like the developers just wanted to show off his shoe design. Or it could be the fact that he looks sort of like Johnny Depp when Johnny Depp isn't in character.

Nahyuta has studied up on American culture so thoroughly that he knows "What's crack-a-lackin', homie?" is an acceptable greeting when someone presents their business card.

Nahyuta watched all of Retinz's shows to prepare for this case. His favorite? "The Ratings Rajah Goes to Burger Barn."

This entire side conversation about Nahyuta visiting Burger Barn is making me laugh

I just realized it's probably about ramen in the Japanese

"O hollow red pepper. Your impotent seeds sprout naught but meaningless, empty words." I love this analogy of comparing Apollo to a red pepper.

Retinz pretending his head fell off is an out of nowhere funny bit

Retinz holding a large flame while saying "Are you watching, Magnifi Gramarye?!" is intense enough, but the reflection in his glasses really sells this bit

The premise for Retinz's television program "Desperation Regeneration?" "Washed-up, has-been singers and comedians get together and play musical chairs. The winner of the game is given a second chance at their career." I can't help but laugh at that

Nahyuta implying that Apollo Justice is an "ex-lawyer who used to make ridiculous bluffs in court, and faded sadly into obscurity" has an unpleasant ring of truth

LMAO so when I had to point out what we had seen that looked like the shadow, I pointed out Mr. Hat in the video and it was incorrect. So I presented the shadow in the background and Trucy tells me that was Mr. Hat. I WAS RIGHT I TELL YOU

I love this murder plot holy shit it's like Danganronpa-levels of convoluted

Shit Nahyuta's rosary just fucking clocked him

The sideways camera movement to view Apollo's pointing pose from the new angle is so satisfying

Mr. Reus's bloody mask showing up in Retinz's cape was probably my favorite moment of his breakdown.

Retinz's response to Trucy's heartbroken "Do you really hate us so much that you'd kill an innocent man?" – "You're damn right!"

As if I couldn't hate Retinz anymore, he just told Trucy, a seventeen-year-old girl, that she doesn't deserve to call herself a magician. Burn in the Twilight Realm, jackass.

My first belly laugh of the game is Apollo: "(If anyone needs to learn to 'let it go and move on,' it's this guy.)"

The Judge is super freaked out when Retinz makes a comment about burning down the court and prison. Maybe it seems extreme, but a few months ago a fucking bomb went off in court, so I can't really blame him.

It's kind of sweet how the Judge requests of Trucy to see "that wonderful smile of yours – that smile of a true entertainer."

It's been ages since I found the end of a case this relieving and satisfying.

I'm really glad they didn't drag out Retinz's cross-examination. It was just as long as it needed to be.

PLEASE tell me Apollo replaces Mr. Reus in the stage show.

Apollo reassuring Trucy that she's a great magician is making me tear up AGAIN

The post-trial interaction between Nahyuta and Apollo only solidifies my belief that religion kills relationships

Trucy: "You don't like you talk about your past, do you? Because you always change the subject." I really don't know what to make of the fact that Apollo legit has a difficult and mysterious history.

Phoenix: "You're a real, full-fledged lawyer now in my eyes!"
Apollo: "A f-full-fledged lawyer? (...I still can't wrap my mind around it.)" I love this

After Phoenix hangs up, Apollo: "(Full-fledged...)" IT GOT BETTER I LOVE THIS

APOLLO IS IN THE SHOW GOD BLESS

[close]

[mastersuperfan]

I'm also done with the first two cases.

Damn, it's crazy that the second case only has two (SUPER LONG) segments. It took me about 4 hours for the investigation and about 6 hours for the trial--this was also with copious examination and presenting, and checking the log a lot to make sure I hadn't missed anything. I've decided I'm going to start taking notes throughout the game, so here are my notes for the trial of Episode 2:

The Magical Turnabout Day 1 Trial

The Magical Turnabout Day 1 Trial
This new defendant lobby music is stressful as hell I feel like someone's about to die and we're not even in Khura'in

THE NEW COURT MUSIC IS EVEN MORE DRAMATIC IT'S LIKE CHILL BUT SOMEONE'S ABOUT TO DIE

The Judge's eyes look so bulbous when he does his surprise face

I, too, write the case details on a scroll

As if "Mr. Reus" wasn't blatant enough, his official name is Manov Mistree. I can't help but be reminded of how Zak Gramarye was originally known as "Shadi Smith" when he was trying to hide his identity.

I'm a fan of the perpetually flowing sash Nahyuta wears, it's a neat animation

Nahyuta is one pretty, pretty man

"I guess Ema couldn't convince him after all" I'm very curious as to how exactly that conversation went down??? "Yeah, uh, the girl you're prosecuting is super nice. Don't prosecute her pls"

I'M ABSOLUTELY FLOORED I was so cool with Nahyuta until he started fucking ripping into Apollo immediately

"Satorha" with the Khura'inese text is pretty cool, the developers put way too much effort into making this a real language

Judge: "I-I see... So basically, you're asking the defense to "get real"? – look who can speak in a modern dialect, finally

"...then I shall cast you down into the pit of hell, along with Trucy Wright!" OH FUCK THIS GUY

APOLLO TO THE RESCUE "IS THAT ANY WAY TO SPEAK IN COURT"

I love Apollo his reactions are so real

EMA IS BACK ON THE SNACKOOS poor Apollo this is bad news

Ema stress eats this is so relatable

EMA FUCKING GOES FOR IT ON THE STAND HOLY SHIT

"She and Prosecutor Sahdmadhi don't seem to get along very well, do they?" when has Ema ever gotten along with a prosecutor she was assigned tbh

I'm laughing the American court reacts to this hostility toward lawyers the same way we did in the first case nice

Sahdmadhi's evidence that Mr. Reus was going to reveal all of Troupe Gramarye's secrets on stage during the show? "Bonny de Famme testified that just before the start of the show, Mr. Reus said... 'I'm going to reveal all of Troupe Gramarye's secrets on stage today!'"

Athena's reaction to the above: "Hmm... Well, that isn't exactly a great starting point for a rebuttal, is it...?"

I swear to god I die every time someone from Khura'in casually threatens to send a defense attorney to hell

Nahyuta is extremely well animated wow

WHEN IS THE LAST TIME WE DEALT WITH A PROSECUTOR THIS RUDE

Did the judge really start to call Apollo Mr. Stink Bug

AWW THE HEALTH BAR IS MADE UP OF ATTORNEY'S BADGES IN AMERICA

NAHYUTA IS PULLING THE SALARY EVALUATION CARD HOLY SHIT

Apollo is the snarkiest little guy I love him

I cannot believe they greenlit the line "(Get a little too addicted to using your precious white powder, did you, Ema?)"

"This 'Holy Mother' is no scientific concept I've ever heard of." SAME EMA SAME

Apollo: "Y-You WHAAAT?! (He actually had proof?!)" – same

Apollo, after I present something incorrectly: "Objection! (Well, I presented that evidence with plenty of confidence...but that confidence is waning by the second...)"
Judge: "Well, how about it, Mr. Justice? Do you have an inconsistency to show the court or not?"
Apollo: "...Um, I was just doing some vocal training, so feel free to continue."
Judge: "And overlook the damage done to our hearing, Mr. Justice? I think not!" *penalty*

From another incorrect objection (this testimony is hard):
Apollo: "...Huh. That's funny. I thought I saw an inconsistency a second ago... It disappeared – like magic! The murder occurred during a magic show, so crazy things like this are bound to happen." thanks Apollo

THIS IS DUMB BOTH OF MY PREVIOUS OBJECTIONS WERE TRYING TO PROVE THAT TRUCY COULDN'T HAVE LEFT FINGERPRINTS WITH HER GLOVES ON

Why didn't presenting the footage of the show work she clearly has gloves on in the video

THEY REMIXED HIS OBJECTION

".............But, on a personal level, I'm very happy about that!" I love Ema I should never have doubted her

When Apollo says "Stag beetles are cool, with those huge mandibles of theirs!" Athena's face says it all

The line "I've been demoted to a vegetable?!" slayed me

"How did the victim's body wind up inside the coffin?" If I hadn't already lost two of my five strikes I would absolutely be answering "it was magic" because I truly believe this would probably the best scene in the game if I did

I absolutely love the arrangement of the Kurain theme from the original trilogy that they've been using in this game

HE FUCKING ATTACKS APOLLO WITH A ROSARY IM GONNA SCREAM

Athena finally intervenes it's about time

"Your Honor, please send for this little child's guardian to come take her home" OH MY GOD WHAT A DICK

I don't really like Bonny all that much but I did have to laugh at her pun "lagomorph-ing illusionist"

I laughed at "(Sure, you're a real fan, all right... Of destroying Trucy, you mean.)"

Bonny: "What else could I think?!" Apollo "(I know of at least three other unflattering things you REALLY think about Trucy...)" this made me laugh because the question was so obviously rhetorical

"Feel free to slowly mull it over while you roast over the flames of hell, you evil red pepper!" why is the writing for this game so perfect

Nahyuta literally pulls out a scroll and tells Apollo which particular hell he will be sent to. I really like this scene for some reason

The Judge thinks PTSD is called "Postal Stress Disorder" and that "it's where a person becomes uncontrollably angry."

After Bonny loses it for a moment, the camera cuts to the Judge, who just stares in bewilderment at her for a moment before shaking his head and telling Athena to "help this unfortunate young lady" without addressing Bonny's statement at all.

Nahyuta thinks the Mood Matrix sounds like "spurious devilry." Judging by how sparingly it was used in Dual Destinies, the developers agree.

Bonny calling Athena a "know-nothing know-it-all" definitely gave me an insult I'll use in the future

I appreciate that the character models are now detailed enough to allow for gratuitous close-ups that still look graphically nice

BONNY'S TRANSFORMATION IS SO GOOD I LOVE THE AESTHETIC

I'm suddenly interested in this character

The music that's playing is the same track they used for Roger Retinz in the investigation and I'm a big fan of this track??? It's quirky and catchy and it makes me laugh—maybe it's a generic "creepy person" music

I love that the gallery murmurs in shock over this witness pronouncing gleefully that she's a bat

Apollo's over-the-top dramatic shocked reaction to being called "lobster boy" makes me think he has an aversion to lobsters

Apollo referring to Bonny as "Batsy McBatty" gives me life

Apollo no don't accuse Bonny of murder the person you accuse on the first day of trial is never the true culprit

Okay he did it with the phrase "You are one artful liar, Ms. de Famme, and one spectacular suspect!" which contains really nice alliteration and is just a very good wording overall so I can forgive it

Speaking of nice wording, Nahyuta follows that up with "My apologies for raining on the defense's merry revelry..." which is a nice turn of phrase

I'm calling it Bonny's teleportation trick is how she was under the stage

Judge: ".........Hmm... I've heard some illogical things come out of you before, but this is absurd."

Judge: "My gut tells me you're bluffing, but I'll bite." JUDGE IS SLAYING TODAY

RIP I misunderstood the answer and accidentally had Apollo claim that the witness teleported beneath the stage
Judge's response: "............Well, I have listened patiently to your reasoning...and the only thing dispelled is the false air of competency you tried to project." HE NEEDS TO TAKE A PILL

Judge: "Ho ho ho. You might be surprised to hear this, but...I used to be known as the 'Jokester Judge'!" I just lost it

How are there five bullet points in a row that are Judge lines?
Judge: "Oh! Maybe YOU are the fake, and your attorney's badge is made out of cardboard!"
Apollo: "No, no! I'm the real thing, I swear! ...And why cardboard, specifically...?
Judge: "Let's just say I had an infuriating experience thanks to one..."

Nahyuta Sick Burn Corner: "I suspected you had a few screws loose, but now I see some are missing altogether." NICE

The audience bursting into applause after the teleportation trick is funny enough, but the Judge proclaiming that "The witness has suddenly split into two people!" only makes it better

The animation of the twins fighting on the stand followed by Apollo telling them to leave the sibling rivalry for later is pretty amusing

The clacking sound of the rosary when Nahyuta slams the table is really satisfying to hear for some reason

The simultaneous shocked animation where their parasols fly back after Nahyuta announces his plan to send them to "interrogation hell" is priceless

I'm really loving the twin dynamic, this is pretty amusing

Athena: "By the time people realized it wasn't a part of the act, it might be too late, huh."
Apollo: "(If by 'people,' you mean 'Athena Cykes,' then yes.)"

Betty excitedly imagining setting the Judge's beard on fire is slaying me

Judge: "Ho ho ho. I plan to be sitting up here at least another ten years."
Athena: "Ten more years? I don't know about that..."
Apollo: "What did we discuss about inner monologues, Athena?!"

In this moment of time I feel so bad that Bonny is so supportive of Betty but Betty is so awful to her why am I so invested in this

I'm down to one attorney's badge why is this so stressful

I lost all my badges so I need to go back to the title screen and restart?? Good thing I just saved when I got down to one

What the hell am I supposed to present how is it not the fire bucket

I'm going to wring somebody's neck I presented the fire bucket I just did it on the wrong statement two separate times and IT MADE SENSE FOR THE OTHER STATEMENTS I PRESENTED IT ON

Betty: "Well... hmph! We have even better tricks up our sleeves!"
Bonny: "...Huh? We do?"

Apollo's theme music is so badass it gets me so pumped up

Betty threatens to rip off Apollo's bangs, and he shouts "Objection!" ...just to say that they'll grow back. Was that really worth an objection

Bonny calming her sister down is kind of sweet

Take-2 TV's idea of a prank is making Trucy believe she committed murder. Nobody except Apollo seems to think this is not a great idea for a practical joke.

The bat in Betty's hat is so much cuter than the bunny in Bonny's

Betty: "But for some reason, he really DID turn up dead, so he kinda just stayed on the ground." As dead people do, Betty.

The person in the gallery who says "I knew she was a homicidal little witch from the start!" is now my personal nemesis and I will hurt them

What the fuck is Retinz doing here oh my god I hate this guy

Athena just became my own personal hero by screaming "GO AWAY, YOU CREEP" in all caps

I enjoy the fact that Retinz probably has some mysterious revenge type history with the Gramaryes

Betty is being so harsh to Bonny but I still acknowledge that calling her "harebrain" is funny

Apollo cheering Trucy up by shouting "You'll be FINE" at her is really heartwarming

Trucy introducing herself as "Trucy Wright. Magician" makes me so happy

Apollo: "(What a Grade-A jerk! Well, he's not going to psyche US out!)" this statement proves that even in his inner monologue, Apollo lives in the 90s

All of these hecklers make me so sad and I feel like the game is trying to make a commentary on the mass media

Trucy performing her testimony is so satisfying

This gallery is so easily swayed I can't stop laughing

I still only have one attorney's badge left rip I'm going to need to save before I do everything

Pressing this testimony is a riot everyone is just like "shut up and enjoy the show Apollo"

Trucy's line "Now, boys and girls, watch carefully, and please don't kick the seat in front of you!" is so cute I love it

Athena objects to Apollo pointing out the contradiction holy shit no

The only new characters are involved with this case are Retinz, Bonny and Betty, the victim, and the prosecutor. They're getting a lot of mileage out of just a few new characters.

Bonny looking up to Trucy and being inspired by her is something I can get behind

Bonny finding the fact that the cameraman filmed her the whole time creepy is also something I can get behind

Oh my god I cannot describe how uncomfortable it makes me that the cameraman started at her feet and slowly panned up to her face

I'm finding it amusing that the random guy in the TV station who told you about this ended up being relevant to the case

Apollo voiced my thought that it was weird how Athena knew how to operate the video analysis, and Athena immediately admits that she just fucking made it up

On the other hand, I enjoy the dramatic close-up of Retinz's shoes that pans up to his face. Maybe it's because I feel like the developers just wanted to show off his shoe design. Or it could be the fact that he looks sort of like Johnny Depp when Johnny Depp isn't in character.

Nahyuta has studied up on American culture so thoroughly that he knows "What's crack-a-lackin', homie?" is an acceptable greeting when someone presents their business card.

Nahyuta watched all of Retinz's shows to prepare for this case. His favorite? "The Ratings Rajah Goes to Burger Barn."

This entire side conversation about Nahyuta visiting Burger Barn is making me laugh

I just realized it's probably about ramen in the Japanese

"O hollow red pepper. Your impotent seeds sprout naught but meaningless, empty words." I love this analogy of comparing Apollo to a red pepper.

Retinz pretending his head fell off is an out of nowhere funny bit

Retinz holding a large flame while saying "Are you watching, Magnifi Gramarye?!" is intense enough, but the reflection in his glasses really sells this bit

The premise for Retinz's television program "Desperation Regeneration?" "Washed-up, has-been singers and comedians get together and play musical chairs. The winner of the game is given a second chance at their career." I can't help but laugh at that

Nahyuta implying that Apollo Justice is an "ex-lawyer who used to make ridiculous bluffs in court, and faded sadly into obscurity" has an unpleasant ring of truth

LMAO so when I had to point out what we had seen that looked like the shadow, I pointed out Mr. Hat in the video and it was incorrect. So I presented the shadow in the background and Trucy tells me that was Mr. Hat. I WAS RIGHT I TELL YOU

I love this murder plot holy shit it's like Danganronpa-levels of convoluted

Shit Nahyuta's rosary just fucking clocked him

The sideways camera movement to view Apollo's pointing pose from the new angle is so satisfying

Mr. Reus's bloody mask showing up in Retinz's cape was probably my favorite moment of his breakdown.

Retinz's response to Trucy's heartbroken "Do you really hate us so much that you'd kill an innocent man?" – "You're damn right!"

As if I couldn't hate Retinz anymore, he just told Trucy, a seventeen-year-old girl, that she doesn't deserve to call herself a magician. Burn in the Twilight Realm, jackass.

My first belly laugh of the game is Apollo: "(If anyone needs to learn to 'let it go and move on,' it's this guy.)"

The Judge is super freaked out when Retinz makes a comment about burning down the court and prison. Maybe it seems extreme, but a few months ago a fucking bomb went off in court, so I can't really blame him.

It's kind of sweet how the Judge requests of Trucy to see "that wonderful smile of yours – that smile of a true entertainer."

It's been ages since I found the end of a case this relieving and satisfying.

I'm really glad they didn't drag out Retinz's cross-examination. It was just as long as it needed to be.

PLEASE tell me Apollo replaces Mr. Reus in the stage show.

Apollo reassuring Trucy that she's a great magician is making me tear up AGAIN

The post-trial interaction between Nahyuta and Apollo only solidifies my belief that religion kills relationships

Trucy: "You don't like you talk about your past, do you? Because you always change the subject." I really don't know what to make of the fact that Apollo legit has a difficult and mysterious history.

Phoenix: "You're a real, full-fledged lawyer now in my eyes!"
Apollo: "A f-full-fledged lawyer? (...I still can't wrap my mind around it.)" I love this

After Phoenix hangs up, Apollo: "(Full-fledged...)" IT GOT BETTER I LOVE THIS

APOLLO IS IN THE SHOW GOD BLESS

[close]

In response to some of your comments, Slow:

Case 2 spoilery stuff

Yeah, I was wondering why the investigation was taking FOREVER. I'm always investigating everything and presenting everything to everyone, though, so I don't miss any dialogue. I estimate it took about 4 hours for me as well.

I also really like the new court music for the California trials. I'd been listening to the soundtrack ever since the game came out in Japan, and that one was the one that really surprised me the most. After having played through this case, I think this is the sole track that makes these trials feel so different from the ones in Dual Destinies, despite the same courtroom and characters.

Wow, I never realized the pun with Mr. Reus... shame on me.

Also, I strangely love Bonny's theme to death (the one that plays when you talk to her during the investigation). Is it just me? It also plays for Alhbi in Case 3, so I get to groove out more. :^)

For the record, I actually picked the option "It was magic!" at that one decision point. I don't remember the exact dialogue, but it went something like this:

Apollo: Considering that the crime took place during a magic show...
Apollo: It's not unreasonable to assume that it was actually magic!
Everyone: ...
Judge: ...
Judge: The only magic here, Mr. Justice...
Judge: ...is how you managed to pass the bar exam! *penalty*

And because of that strike, I ended up getting a game over after the recess. :/

I'm really glad they stepped up the difficulty from DD, though. I almost never got penalties in DD, but in this game I'm actually getting game overs.

No spoilers, but Case 3 is shaping up to be pretty good (though IMO not as good as Case 2, but the Divination Séance sequence is really well-done).

EDIT: And one more thing! I think one of the best moments in the entire series is that part when you return to the office at the end of Case 2's investigation and then see everything covered with those creepy red REPOSSESSED stickers--a total OH SHIT moment right there. And of course, the Investigation ~ Core theme only made it creepier.

I really love the music in this game overall, really.

[close]

[SlowPokemon]

^ enjoyed reading that, and you've got some legitimately good points there. But overall I'd say that's an incredibly successful case because of the emotional investments involved--diving back into the relationships and plot threads from AJAA is a surprising and welcome move, and I'm excited to see how it continues to develop. I actually teared up several times during the investigation and then again at the end.

[GaryOak]

I just finished the game and

Spoiler

it was GREAT. I can finally forgive Dual Destinies and rest my soul. Long day, still gotta sort my thoughts. This felt like an actual Ace Attorney game, like something between Apollo Justice and DD.  At this point my only complain would be that it felt like they re-used too much music from old games. And maybe too much secret identities haha.

[close]

[EFitTrainr]

Just started Spirit of Justice, let's goooooooooo

[SlowPokemon]

Thoughts for investigation of Episode 3:

The Rite of Turnabout Day 1 Investigation

The Rite of Turnabout Day 1 Investigation
I have to admit, all of this excessive religion is bugging me pretty bad, especially the way the Khura'inese people fanaticize about it like in Ahlbi's line "There's nothing better in the world than being able to pray to your heart's content!"

Phoenix's response to the above: "(I... can think of a few things I'd rather do...)" – SAME

Ahlbi getting starry-eyed over Maya is adorable and I love it.

"I get the feeling I'm in for a really long story." Did you mean starting an Ace Attorney episode.

Phoenix's idea of a respectful prayer in honor of being allowed to stay at the temple: "(May there be a slightly softer futon tonight. And may tomorrow's breakfast be a little bigger.)"

Ahlbi has the only positive reaction to the attorney's badge that I can think of off the top of my head.

Phoenix thinks there's a reason why the American attorney's badge looks like a sunflower, but he can't remember.

Phoenix planning on tipping Ahlbi extra well for his services is such a sweet moment.

"Khura'in is also known as the Land of Prayer." So Khura'in is Georgia.

"I can't wait to see Miss Maya again." Neither can I, Ahlbi.

I'm so uncomfortable and freaking out over a deeply religious Maya OH THANK GOD SHE'S JOKING

Such a snazzy little rework of the Turnabout Sisters Theme ahhhh

Phoenix: "(Now, if I were to pray for something...it'd be for me to not get dragged into any more trouble than I already have been.)" Okay Phoenix but how about praying for something realistic

Forgive me if I don't take up Phoenix's offer to sue him.

Is there any person playing this game who didn't immediately see the dagger involved in the Purification Rite as a massive red flag

How is it 2028 and newspapers are still in black and white

Phoenix: "T-Talk about a 'Kee'ra' business strategy..." Phoenix Wright is officially a dad folks

The animation of Ahlbi and Shah-do falling over is the cutest and best in the game so far.

*jangle* *jangle* more like Tenma Taro flashbacks

Phoenix is doubtful that the bells on the high priest's shoes are meant to be a "stop slacking" warning system for Maya.

Acolyte Zeh'lot. I cannot believe this game.

Phoenix: "My back is killing me!" He's such a dad

Phoenix just fucking keels over at the prospect of staying there for more than a couple minutes

"(I guess I passed out from that back pain.)" same

MAYA IS BEING ARRESTED WHAT A FUCKING SURPRISE OH MY GOD

EMA IS HERE WHy is ema here what

I hate that Ema's first canonical interaction with Maya is placing her under arrest

Of course Maya is accused of killing the high priest. Of course it wasn't just some unimportant rando. It was the fucking religious authority of the land nice nice nice NICE

I love this animation of Ema where she's swaying back and forth and thinking

Okay so "Tahrust Inmee" is a pun on the phrase "trust in me" considering he's a religious leader that sounds legit and not sketchy at all

"(I never knew my back's like a ticking time bomb... I'd better take better care of it.)" WHAT A DAD

I love that Ema is a woman of science and hates how primitive this uber religious society is

WHAT A SURPRISE THE SACRED DAGGER IS THE PRESUMED MURDER WEAPON

This ominous music that plays when you talk to Rayfa at the crime scene is really lovely what the hell

Phoenix: "(How did this suddenly become a game of 'Pin the Diss on the Lawyer'?)"

Phoenix wonders aloud rhetorically who taught Rayfa to hate an entire group of people so much. Her parents, she informs him.

Acolyte Zeh'lot's first name is Puhray. Because of course it is.

The warbaa'd statue looks metal as hell, especially given its blood-soaked appearance.

PHOENIX AND APOLLO ARE BOTH AFRAID OF HEIGHTS??? Now that I think about it, they mentioned Phoenix's fear of heights in the Bridge to the Turnabout case.

I swear to the holy mother if someone says "the stairs from the Plaza of Devotion are the only way to reach the scene of the crime" again I'm going to quit the game until I figure out the inevitable other way to reach the sanctum

Why is Phoenix still introducing himself as a lawyer right off the bat like is he not aware that doing so cannot lead to anything good

I love that "character posing as if they're about to draw a weapon and instead pulling out a harmless object" has become a running gag in this franchise.

Beard guy's random pose made me chuckle.

Ema thinks Prosecutor Sahdmadhi is "the world's hardest riddle, wrapped in a flowy sash."

Another tidbit from Ema: Nahyuta has long eyelashes. What a pretty boy.

AWW Ema still refers to Klavier as a "glimmerous fop," though this time she adds "grating, bling-loving Europhile." Ouch.

Ema's ring tone isn't the Steel Samurai theme anymore, like it was in "Rise from the Ashes." I can't say I'm surprised, but I am disappointed.

"Who'd have thought you'd get caught up in something like this?" Everyone, Phoenix. Everyone.

I laughed at Phoenix requesting that Rayfa "take it down a notch or three"

I noticed this in the defendant lobby of Episode 1, but the dust floating in the light of the window in the Detention Center is fucking BEAUTIFUL

I wasn't consciously aware of this until Maya started whispering, but not only does the text speed up and slow down as a person's rate of speech changes, the beeping of the text scrolling by actually changes in volume as a person raises or lowers their voice. Nice, dev team. Nice.

I'm really interested in whatever it is about Maya being able to channel spirits that's a problem in the Kingdom of Khura'in.

I also really want Maya to channel Mia. Because I want to see Mia.

Maya: "Sorry, I guess I've outgrown that stepladder argument we always have..."
Phoenix: "I think you mean 'ladder,' Maya."
WHAT THE HELL WHAT THE FUCK CAPCOM NO WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM YOU'RE BREAKING SO MANY MAJOR RULES HERE???
1. THE LADDER VS STEPLADDER ARGUMENT MUST NEVER BE ADDRESSED OUTSIDE OF OPTIONAL INVESTIGATION DIALOGUE
2. NO CHARACTER IS TOO MATURE TO DISENGAGE IN THE EPIC LADDER VS STEPLADDER BATTLE EVEN EDGEWORTH HAS AN OPINION
3. P H O E N I X  I S  T E A M  S T E P L A D D E R  A N D  M A Y A  I S  T E A M  L A D D E R WHAT THE FUCK KIND OF SHODDY WRITING IS THIS DID THEY NOT FUCKING FACT CHECK THIS I AM SO ANGRY

Those holes in the paper were pretty obviously made while the paper was folded up and I need someone to realize this immediately and not take five million years to figure it out

This is so heartwarming how Phoenix is encouraging Maya by reminding her that they've gotten out of this situation several times before.

"It's 'All Aboard the Phoenix Freedom Express!'" Now it's sad AND funny.

Rayfa's line "Bravado will not save you tomorrow, and by then, it will be too late to ask for mercy." Damn, girl. Take a pill.

I enjoy Rayfa getting defensive of her country when Phoenix says that the ransom letter technique of cutting and pasting letters into words hasn't been used much since the spread of computers and printers. Rayfa immediately assures him that Khura'in has such modern appliances, too.

Examining the bell used for summoning the guard after Maya exits the visiting room results in Rayfa jeering that she has no use for such an item. Why? Because she's the princess, and shouting orders at the guard is just as effective. I'll admit I had to laugh at that.

I legit smile every time Ahlbi shows up. I love this kid. Why are the kids in Ace Attorney always done so well?

"(I wish she'd stop insinuating that all lawyers are trash.)" Same, Phoenix.

I really enjoy the fact that Rayfa just fucking falls to the ground when Ahlbi expresses his trust in Phoenix

Phoenix is just like "ah yeah let's just leave her there for now" he really hates this girl I'm laughing

Just looking at the Tehm'pul Temple's stairs makes Phoenix's back ache. On the one hand it makes me sad to see Phoenix start to enter middle-aged territory, but on the other hand it's hilarious.

I'm not quite sure if Shah'do is serving any purpose in this game other than to add to how cute Ahlbi is. But I'm also not sure if I really care.

Phoenix says the poster at the back of the Bazaar shows a superhero, and grumbles about how all superheroes look the same regardless of their country of origin. What superhero is this poster reminding him of, exactly? It looks unfamiliar to me.

Phoenix planning on bringing home a souvenir for Trucy and the others is sweet.

I enjoy that Ahlbi is such a forceful salesboy and knows that he can mark up the price a bit.

I feel bad that examining the vegetable cart results in Phoenix buying a gratuitously large amount of food for Ahlbi, but it's also kinda sweet.

I love the fact that the only evidence Ahlbi will react to is the Attorney's Badge. Like nice someone finally appreciates me

I'm currently entertaining the notion that the escaped prisoner is the quirky guy with the beard.

Or, better yet, maybe he's the one who's been dressing up as Lady Kee'ra.

HMM, WONDER IF THIS THREE-PRONGED ARROW HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH THE THREE HOLES THAT WERE STABBED INTO THE LETTER

If nothing else, the fact that the first thing I notice in the High Priest's House is the bag with the Steel Samurai's face on it, even though it's underneath the text window, speaks as a testament to my level of dorkiness when it comes to this franchise.

The widow's name is Beh'leeb Inmee. I literally cannot even with Ace Attorney right now.

I love all of the Khura'inese Butterfly and Mitamah imagery around this area of the game.

Tahrust is eleven years older than Beh'leeb.

Rayfa is legitimately being respectful and graceful as hell to Beh'leeb. I'm kind of surprised, though I guess the player only gets to see her when she's in ultra tsundere mode.

Oh shit stop talking to the picture it's creeping me out

Phoenix's internal "(Sh-She's definitely speaking with him!)" is really funny to me

"Maya's friend from the States" really struck me as funny and out of nowhere. They're going all out with the direct US references this game.

The board game on the table in the High Priest's House is called "Kachu'demahl." I guess you gotta. Moreover, "each piece has a special move that can only be used once per game." I didn't expect a reference to a game that's not even out yet, but that's the exact premise behind the Z-moves that are to be introduced in Pokémon Sun and Moon.

I have to laugh at the sheer rudeness of Rayfa's comment to Phoenix after he fails to recognize a spiky floor cushion: "Your ignorance astounds me. There is not a soul in Khura'in who would not recognize this." Like, give the dude who's been here for two weeks a break.

The escaped rebel's name is Datz Are'bal. I'm SO DONE WITH ACE ATTORNEY.

Oh my god the television in the High Priest's House reveals that same superhero I didn't recognize from the Bazaar. She's known as "The Plumed Punisher: Warrior of Neo Twilight Realm" and the show's theme song is a lazy rework of the Steel Samurai theme. What kind of point is this game trying to make about superhero shows...?

Oh god there's a picture of her is this going to be relevant to the plot

HA THE STEEL SAMURAI GETS A SLEEK NEW LOGO

I love that they didn't remix the Steel Samurai track. You have all of this modern orchestral and exotic instrumentation and then it's just the same fucking GBA-originating track they've used since the first game. I love it.

I'm enjoying this entire drawn-out bizarre callback that I didn't expect to get from touching the television

Rayfa is ABSOLUTELY CONVINCED that the Plumed Punisher doesn't bear any kind of similarity to the Steel Samurai.

The comment about Phoenix's reflection in the golden orb ruining the orb's beauty is the final push over the edge to convince me that any name would be more suited to Rayfa than "Your Benevolence."

HMM I WONDER WHAT THESE THREE HOLES IN THE ENVELOPE MEAN FOR THIS CASE??? HMMMMMMMMM

Oh my GOD STOP PUTTING THE PICTURE IN FRONT OF YOUR FACE AND PRETENDING TO BE YOUR DEAD HUSBAND

That bit actually did make me laugh because the photo lined up so perfectly with her body

I came back to the Bazaar to see if anything changed. Probably not intended to be funny, but Rayfa commanding the yak to stop licking and nuzzling her as if it could understand her made me laugh.

Also, after the above, the heel-face turn she makes from lecturing Phoenix on the importance of being respectful to yaks to yelling at the yak that she'll make a leather coat out of it later.

The brick joke of Ahlbi mentioning that the cry of the warbaa'd is scary, followed by later returning and having the bird roar like a lion and terrifying Phoenix, is priceless.

Phoenix: "(I guess they have a sewer system here in Khura'in. What am I thinking? Of course they do. That was ignorant of me...)" I love that Phoenix is trying to be aware of his ethnocentrism

Oh my gosh I love the sound when you try to move to someplace that you're already at. What a weird sound.

Back to the High Priest's House to deal with this lady, who is now swapping the funeral picture out with a terrifying demonic picture to come across as angry. Why is this funny to me.

PSYCHE-LOCKS IT'S ABOUT TIME

Please tell me we get to work out the letter before we go to court lmao

I've had to look up like seven words since starting this game and I'm pretty sure they've all been spoken by Rayfa who is fourteen

Ga'ran Palace is hella cool and the queen is such a cool character design

I love that little "(Ack...)" after Phoenix realizes he's acting so strangely

I love that Inga talks like a mobster even though he's Khura'inese

Inga (threateningly getting closer): "You want to question me?"
Phoenix: "That would be great."

I'm almost relieved they don't let me investigate this scene because I'm so ready for this investigation to be over

So...Inga's cigar is a stamp...?

I'm loving this ominous music.

Phoenix legitimately considering mouthing off to Inga but then internally being like "I can't get arrested right now" gives me life

THOSE ARE ORDERS OF EXECUTION HOLY FUCK I HATE THIS GUY THIS IS SO METAL

Phoenix crossing important corrupt legal people like Phoenix no keep a low profile

It's a nice touch that those execution orders have different text every time one flies away. Nice detail.

This conversation with Maya about learning the channeling technique and becoming the master is so cool and probably the most interesting tidbit to do with her character so far

Rayfa immediately being in awe of Maya's Plumed Punisher strap is amusing

This in-depth analysis of the Steel Samurai theme song is my favorite thing

Maya is going to pitch "The Plumed Punisher vs. The Steel Samurai" to TV stations back in America. Good luck with that, Maya.

"(Time to head back to the temple and go over everything I've learned so far.)" more like please end this investigation now I've been playing for five hours

Rayfa: "You, too, could become a man of upstanding character if you learned from his example."
Phoenix: "S-Sure... (Upstanding character? Him...?)" – I read "him?" in the same voice as Michael saying "her?" in Arrested Development

I did smile at Rayfa suggesting that the multiple visits to the detention center were to smuggle in escape tools one by one, and then to cut away at the bars little by little—using the spikes on Phoenix's head. Phoenix: "Now this is getting ridiculous..." –Now?

Presenting the Plumed Punisher strap to Rayfa results in her spitting out "Do not flaunt that strap before me!" which is out of context Ace Attorney at its best

I've never been so happy to see Ahlbi god I was expecting/hoping that I'd be paired with him for the investigation today but instead all I got was Rayfa and her day of one thousand insults why is she so rude

That fucking investigation was so long I'm going to die

Definitely feeling like the "combine two investigations and two trials into one super long investigation and one super long investigation" thing is not a good idea in practice, there's not even so much as a save point anywhere. It feels like there's no good stopping point anywhere in each of these sections that are all like several hours (this last one took me about six and a half hours according to my activity log). Not sure why they went through with this line of structure.

[close]

[mastersuperfan]

Thoughts for investigation of Episode 3:

The Rite of Turnabout Day 1 Investigation

The Rite of Turnabout Day 1 Investigation
I have to admit, all of this excessive religion is bugging me pretty bad, especially the way the Khura'inese people fanaticize about it like in Ahlbi's line "There's nothing better in the world than being able to pray to your heart's content!"

Phoenix's response to the above: "(I... can think of a few things I'd rather do...)" – SAME

Ahlbi getting starry-eyed over Maya is adorable and I love it.

"I get the feeling I'm in for a really long story." Did you mean starting an Ace Attorney episode.

Phoenix's idea of a respectful prayer in honor of being allowed to stay at the temple: "(May there be a slightly softer futon tonight. And may tomorrow's breakfast be a little bigger.)"

Ahlbi has the only positive reaction to the attorney's badge that I can think of off the top of my head.

Phoenix thinks there's a reason why the American attorney's badge looks like a sunflower, but he can't remember.

Phoenix planning on tipping Ahlbi extra well for his services is such a sweet moment.

"Khura'in is also known as the Land of Prayer." So Khura'in is Georgia.

"I can't wait to see Miss Maya again." Neither can I, Ahlbi.

I'm so uncomfortable and freaking out over a deeply religious Maya OH THANK GOD SHE'S JOKING

Such a snazzy little rework of the Turnabout Sisters Theme ahhhh

Phoenix: "(Now, if I were to pray for something...it'd be for me to not get dragged into any more trouble than I already have been.)" Okay Phoenix but how about praying for something realistic

Forgive me if I don't take up Phoenix's offer to sue him.

Is there any person playing this game who didn't immediately see the dagger involved in the Purification Rite as a massive red flag

How is it 2028 and newspapers are still in black and white

Phoenix: "T-Talk about a 'Kee'ra' business strategy..." Phoenix Wright is officially a dad folks

The animation of Ahlbi and Shah-do falling over is the cutest and best in the game so far.

*jangle* *jangle* more like Tenma Taro flashbacks

Phoenix is doubtful that the bells on the high priest's shoes are meant to be a "stop slacking" warning system for Maya.

Acolyte Zeh'lot. I cannot believe this game.

Phoenix: "My back is killing me!" He's such a dad

Phoenix just fucking keels over at the prospect of staying there for more than a couple minutes

"(I guess I passed out from that back pain.)" same

MAYA IS BEING ARRESTED WHAT A FUCKING SURPRISE OH MY GOD

EMA IS HERE WHy is ema here what

I hate that Ema's first canonical interaction with Maya is placing her under arrest

Of course Maya is accused of killing the high priest. Of course it wasn't just some unimportant rando. It was the fucking religious authority of the land nice nice nice NICE

I love this animation of Ema where she's swaying back and forth and thinking

Okay so "Tahrust Inmee" is a pun on the phrase "trust in me" considering he's a religious leader that sounds legit and not sketchy at all

"(I never knew my back's like a ticking time bomb... I'd better take better care of it.)" WHAT A DAD

I love that Ema is a woman of science and hates how primitive this uber religious society is

WHAT A SURPRISE THE SACRED DAGGER IS THE PRESUMED MURDER WEAPON

This ominous music that plays when you talk to Rayfa at the crime scene is really lovely what the hell

Phoenix: "(How did this suddenly become a game of 'Pin the Diss on the Lawyer'?)"

Phoenix wonders aloud rhetorically who taught Rayfa to hate an entire group of people so much. Her parents, she informs him.

Acolyte Zeh'lot's first name is Puhray. Because of course it is.

The warbaa'd statue looks metal as hell, especially given its blood-soaked appearance.

PHOENIX AND APOLLO ARE BOTH AFRAID OF HEIGHTS??? Now that I think about it, they mentioned Phoenix's fear of heights in the Bridge to the Turnabout case.

I swear to the holy mother if someone says "the stairs from the Plaza of Devotion are the only way to reach the scene of the crime" again I'm going to quit the game until I figure out the inevitable other way to reach the sanctum

Why is Phoenix still introducing himself as a lawyer right off the bat like is he not aware that doing so cannot lead to anything good

I love that "character posing as if they're about to draw a weapon and instead pulling out a harmless object" has become a running gag in this franchise.

Beard guy's random pose made me chuckle.

Ema thinks Prosecutor Sahdmadhi is "the world's hardest riddle, wrapped in a flowy sash."

Another tidbit from Ema: Nahyuta has long eyelashes. What a pretty boy.

AWW Ema still refers to Klavier as a "glimmerous fop," though this time she adds "grating, bling-loving Europhile." Ouch.

Ema's ring tone isn't the Steel Samurai theme anymore, like it was in "Rise from the Ashes." I can't say I'm surprised, but I am disappointed.

"Who'd have thought you'd get caught up in something like this?" Everyone, Phoenix. Everyone.

I laughed at Phoenix requesting that Rayfa "take it down a notch or three"

I noticed this in the defendant lobby of Episode 1, but the dust floating in the light of the window in the Detention Center is fucking BEAUTIFUL

I wasn't consciously aware of this until Maya started whispering, but not only does the text speed up and slow down as a person's rate of speech changes, the beeping of the text scrolling by actually changes in volume as a person raises or lowers their voice. Nice, dev team. Nice.

I'm really interested in whatever it is about Maya being able to channel spirits that's a problem in the Kingdom of Khura'in.

I also really want Maya to channel Mia. Because I want to see Mia.

Maya: "Sorry, I guess I've outgrown that stepladder argument we always have..."
Phoenix: "I think you mean 'ladder,' Maya."
WHAT THE HELL WHAT THE FUCK CAPCOM NO WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM YOU'RE BREAKING SO MANY MAJOR RULES HERE???
1. THE LADDER VS STEPLADDER ARGUMENT MUST NEVER BE ADDRESSED OUTSIDE OF OPTIONAL INVESTIGATION DIALOGUE
2. NO CHARACTER IS TOO MATURE TO DISENGAGE IN THE EPIC LADDER VS STEPLADDER BATTLE EVEN EDGEWORTH HAS AN OPINION
3. P H O E N I X  I S  T E A M  S T E P L A D D E R  A N D  M A Y A  I S  T E A M  L A D D E R WHAT THE FUCK KIND OF SHODDY WRITING IS THIS DID THEY NOT FUCKING FACT CHECK THIS I AM SO ANGRY

Those holes in the paper were pretty obviously made while the paper was folded up and I need someone to realize this immediately and not take five million years to figure it out

This is so heartwarming how Phoenix is encouraging Maya by reminding her that they've gotten out of this situation several times before.

"It's 'All Aboard the Phoenix Freedom Express!'" Now it's sad AND funny.

Rayfa's line "Bravado will not save you tomorrow, and by then, it will be too late to ask for mercy." Damn, girl. Take a pill.

I enjoy Rayfa getting defensive of her country when Phoenix says that the ransom letter technique of cutting and pasting letters into words hasn't been used much since the spread of computers and printers. Rayfa immediately assures him that Khura'in has such modern appliances, too.

Examining the bell used for summoning the guard after Maya exits the visiting room results in Rayfa jeering that she has no use for such an item. Why? Because she's the princess, and shouting orders at the guard is just as effective. I'll admit I had to laugh at that.

I legit smile every time Ahlbi shows up. I love this kid. Why are the kids in Ace Attorney always done so well?

"(I wish she'd stop insinuating that all lawyers are trash.)" Same, Phoenix.

I really enjoy the fact that Rayfa just fucking falls to the ground when Ahlbi expresses his trust in Phoenix

Phoenix is just like "ah yeah let's just leave her there for now" he really hates this girl I'm laughing

Just looking at the Tehm'pul Temple's stairs makes Phoenix's back ache. On the one hand it makes me sad to see Phoenix start to enter middle-aged territory, but on the other hand it's hilarious.

I'm not quite sure if Shah'do is serving any purpose in this game other than to add to how cute Ahlbi is. But I'm also not sure if I really care.

Phoenix says the poster at the back of the Bazaar shows a superhero, and grumbles about how all superheroes look the same regardless of their country of origin. What superhero is this poster reminding him of, exactly? It looks unfamiliar to me.

Phoenix planning on bringing home a souvenir for Trucy and the others is sweet.

I enjoy that Ahlbi is such a forceful salesboy and knows that he can mark up the price a bit.

I feel bad that examining the vegetable cart results in Phoenix buying a gratuitously large amount of food for Ahlbi, but it's also kinda sweet.

I love the fact that the only evidence Ahlbi will react to is the Attorney's Badge. Like nice someone finally appreciates me

I'm currently entertaining the notion that the escaped prisoner is the quirky guy with the beard.

Or, better yet, maybe he's the one who's been dressing up as Lady Kee'ra.

HMM, WONDER IF THIS THREE-PRONGED ARROW HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH THE THREE HOLES THAT WERE STABBED INTO THE LETTER

If nothing else, the fact that the first thing I notice in the High Priest's House is the bag with the Steel Samurai's face on it, even though it's underneath the text window, speaks as a testament to my level of dorkiness when it comes to this franchise.

The widow's name is Beh'leeb Inmee. I literally cannot even with Ace Attorney right now.

I love all of the Khura'inese Butterfly and Mitamah imagery around this area of the game.

Tahrust is eleven years older than Beh'leeb.

Rayfa is legitimately being respectful and graceful as hell to Beh'leeb. I'm kind of surprised, though I guess the player only gets to see her when she's in ultra tsundere mode.

Oh shit stop talking to the picture it's creeping me out

Phoenix's internal "(Sh-She's definitely speaking with him!)" is really funny to me

"Maya's friend from the States" really struck me as funny and out of nowhere. They're going all out with the direct US references this game.

The board game on the table in the High Priest's House is called "Kachu'demahl." I guess you gotta. Moreover, "each piece has a special move that can only be used once per game." I didn't expect a reference to a game that's not even out yet, but that's the exact premise behind the Z-moves that are to be introduced in Pokémon Sun and Moon.

I have to laugh at the sheer rudeness of Rayfa's comment to Phoenix after he fails to recognize a spiky floor cushion: "Your ignorance astounds me. There is not a soul in Khura'in who would not recognize this." Like, give the dude who's been here for two weeks a break.

The escaped rebel's name is Datz Are'bal. I'm SO DONE WITH ACE ATTORNEY.

Oh my god the television in the High Priest's House reveals that same superhero I didn't recognize from the Bazaar. She's known as "The Plumed Punisher: Warrior of Neo Twilight Realm" and the show's theme song is a lazy rework of the Steel Samurai theme. What kind of point is this game trying to make about superhero shows...?

Oh god there's a picture of her is this going to be relevant to the plot

HA THE STEEL SAMURAI GETS A SLEEK NEW LOGO

I love that they didn't remix the Steel Samurai track. You have all of this modern orchestral and exotic instrumentation and then it's just the same fucking GBA-originating track they've used since the first game. I love it.

I'm enjoying this entire drawn-out bizarre callback that I didn't expect to get from touching the television

Rayfa is ABSOLUTELY CONVINCED that the Plumed Punisher doesn't bear any kind of similarity to the Steel Samurai.

The comment about Phoenix's reflection in the golden orb ruining the orb's beauty is the final push over the edge to convince me that any name would be more suited to Rayfa than "Your Benevolence."

HMM I WONDER WHAT THESE THREE HOLES IN THE ENVELOPE MEAN FOR THIS CASE??? HMMMMMMMMM

Oh my GOD STOP PUTTING THE PICTURE IN FRONT OF YOUR FACE AND PRETENDING TO BE YOUR DEAD HUSBAND

That bit actually did make me laugh because the photo lined up so perfectly with her body

I came back to the Bazaar to see if anything changed. Probably not intended to be funny, but Rayfa commanding the yak to stop licking and nuzzling her as if it could understand her made me laugh.

Also, after the above, the heel-face turn she makes from lecturing Phoenix on the importance of being respectful to yaks to yelling at the yak that she'll make a leather coat out of it later.

The brick joke of Ahlbi mentioning that the cry of the warbaa'd is scary, followed by later returning and having the bird roar like a lion and terrifying Phoenix, is priceless.

Phoenix: "(I guess they have a sewer system here in Khura'in. What am I thinking? Of course they do. That was ignorant of me...)" I love that Phoenix is trying to be aware of his ethnocentrism

Oh my gosh I love the sound when you try to move to someplace that you're already at. What a weird sound.

Back to the High Priest's House to deal with this lady, who is now swapping the funeral picture out with a terrifying demonic picture to come across as angry. Why is this funny to me.

PSYCHE-LOCKS IT'S ABOUT TIME

Please tell me we get to work out the letter before we go to court lmao

I've had to look up like seven words since starting this game and I'm pretty sure they've all been spoken by Rayfa who is fourteen

Ga'ran Palace is hella cool and the queen is such a cool character design

I love that little "(Ack...)" after Phoenix realizes he's acting so strangely

I love that Inga talks like a mobster even though he's Khura'inese

Inga (threateningly getting closer): "You want to question me?"
Phoenix: "That would be great."

I'm almost relieved they don't let me investigate this scene because I'm so ready for this investigation to be over

So...Inga's cigar is a stamp...?

I'm loving this ominous music.

Phoenix legitimately considering mouthing off to Inga but then internally being like "I can't get arrested right now" gives me life

THOSE ARE ORDERS OF EXECUTION HOLY FUCK I HATE THIS GUY THIS IS SO METAL

Phoenix crossing important corrupt legal people like Phoenix no keep a low profile

It's a nice touch that those execution orders have different text every time one flies away. Nice detail.

This conversation with Maya about learning the channeling technique and becoming the master is so cool and probably the most interesting tidbit to do with her character so far

Rayfa immediately being in awe of Maya's Plumed Punisher strap is amusing

This in-depth analysis of the Steel Samurai theme song is my favorite thing

Maya is going to pitch "The Plumed Punisher vs. The Steel Samurai" to TV stations back in America. Good luck with that, Maya.

"(Time to head back to the temple and go over everything I've learned so far.)" more like please end this investigation now I've been playing for five hours

Rayfa: "You, too, could become a man of upstanding character if you learned from his example."
Phoenix: "S-Sure... (Upstanding character? Him...?)" – I read "him?" in the same voice as Michael saying "her?" in Arrested Development

I did smile at Rayfa suggesting that the multiple visits to the detention center were to smuggle in escape tools one by one, and then to cut away at the bars little by little—using the spikes on Phoenix's head. Phoenix: "Now this is getting ridiculous..." –Now?

Presenting the Plumed Punisher strap to Rayfa results in her spitting out "Do not flaunt that strap before me!" which is out of context Ace Attorney at its best

I've never been so happy to see Ahlbi god I was expecting/hoping that I'd be paired with him for the investigation today but instead all I got was Rayfa and her day of one thousand insults why is she so rude

That fucking investigation was so long I'm going to die

Definitely feeling like the "combine two investigations and two trials into one super long investigation and one super long investigation" thing is not a good idea in practice, there's not even so much as a save point anywhere. It feels like there's no good stopping point anywhere in each of these sections that are all like several hours (this last one took me about six and a half hours according to my activity log). Not sure why they went through with this line of structure.

[close]

FYI Case 3 has two investigations and two trial sections.

My thoughts on it, after completing it:

The Rite of Turnabout

This case started off a bit meh but ended up really good and emotional in the end.

Laughed my ass off when Maya channeled Tarust.

Really love the difficulty of this case especially; makes up for the complete lack of challenge in DD. The Divination Séances were hard but clever.

Glad to see the epic Revisualization sequence again, though it's not as great as Case 2's, in my opinion.

Seriously, spiky decorative objects seem to be the weapons in quite a few murders. See 1-3 and 1-5.

Also, the names make me laugh:

Tarust Inmee
Beh'leeb Inmee
Puh'ray Zeh'lot
Datz Are'bal
Reehl Neh'mu (lol)

[close]

I've heard a few reviewers say that Case 4 is the weakest link of the game, but if I get to hear Athena's awesome remixed objection theme, how bad can it be?